The Fifth Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord
(I John 2:3-11; Luke 2:22-35)
A biblical scholar once ignited a holy man’s ire by calling
John’s letters, “New Testament baby-talk.” The scholar meant that John’s
letters possess simplicity and directness as if they were written for
children. We see this in today’s first reading. “Whoever loves his
brother remains in the light...,” John writes, “Whoever hates his brother
remains in darkness...”
John does not have enemy-love in mind here as if he were
challenging Ukrainians to Russian soldiers. Nor does he mean exactly that
Christians have affection for blood brothers and sisters. He is simply
reiterating Jesus’ commandment to his community of disciples at the Last
Supper. He tells them that that they are
to love one another. It may sound easy, but hard feelings can sprout like
weeds in a cow pasture when humans get together. Disputes have originated
among Guadalupanas and among Knights of Columbus as if these associations were composed
of bands of pirates. Most everyone feels frustration, envy, and even
enmity with his or her associates at times. John is saying that we must
let go of these passions and always treat one another with care.
John would be oversimplifying if he meant that we may limit
our love to those with whom we go to church. Certainly such love for
brothers and sisters in the religious or parish community teaches toleration, respect,
and compassion so that we in turn may love even those who hate us.
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